Business Details
Your Trusted Illinois Landscape Architects Association
The Ilasla has been a leading voice in landscape architecture since its founding. Our organization champions the planning, design, and stewardship of healthy, equitable, and resilient environments. With over 500 members, we provide professional development opportunities, advocacy efforts, and educational resources to support landscape architects in public, private, and academic practice. Our team includes licensed professionals who have completed rigorous education and examination requirements, including the Landscape Architecture Review Examination.We actively engage in legislative monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and professional networking initiatives to elevate the practice of landscape architecture in Illinois. Through our awards program, we recognize excellence in design and demonstrate the positive impact of landscape architecture on everyday life. Our commitment to advancing the profession is reflected in our strategic partnerships, continuing education offerings, and resources for both established professionals and students entering the field.
Services
Professional Advocacy
Continuing Education
Networking Events
Job Placement Services
Design Awards Program
Highlights and features
- We offer exclusive ASLA professional designation for enhanced credibility
- We provide reduced rates for continuing education programs and events
- Our members gain access to extensive networking and mentorship opportunities
- We maintain a dedicated job board for landscape architecture professionals
- Our advocacy committee works to elevate landscape architecture legislation
Associations and certifications
- American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
Services
Professional Advocacy
Our advocacy efforts focus on elevating landscape architecture legislation through dedicated lobbying at state and national levels. We work to transform the current Title Act into a Practice Act while promoting public awareness of the profession. Our team engages in legislative monitoring and provides opportunities for members to participate in policy shaping activities.
Continuing Education
We offer comprehensive educational programs including free sessions for members and access to Landscape Architecture Magazine. Our education initiatives cover diverse topics like biodiversity, climate action, and universal design. Members receive free access to Professional Practice Networks and discounted rates for specialized learning opportunities.
Networking Events
Our organization facilitates numerous networking opportunities through social events, committee participation, and mentorship programs. Members connect with peers, experts, and potential employers through our job board and collaborative initiatives. Annual events like World Landscape Architecture Month enhance professional relationships within the field.
Design Awards Program
We recognize excellence in landscape architecture through our annual awards program featuring President, Honor, and Merit categories. Winning projects demonstrate the profession's impact on public spaces and environmental stewardship. Award recipients gain exposure through publications and special recognition events.
Student Resources
We support emerging professionals with free student memberships, scholarship information, and career guidance. Our resources include portfolio development tips, internship opportunities, and networking events. Students gain access to professional development resources and award submission guidance for both state and national competitions.
People
Stacey Libra
President
ASLA President Stacey Libra leads Indigo Ecological Design with expertise in sustainable landscape solutions. She advocates for ecological design practices and professional development opportunities for landscape architects.
Kenon Boehm
Past-President
Former President Kenon Boehm brings extensive experience from Craig Bergmann Landscape Design. He focuses on design excellence and professional practice standards within the landscape architecture community.
Sarah Dreier
President-Elect
President-Elect Sarah Dreier from JSD Professional Services contributes expertise in urban design and professional leadership. She works to advance the profession through strategic initiatives and member engagement.
Lara Barnas
Secretary
Secretary Lara Barnas of Hitchcock Design Group supports organizational operations and documentation. She contributes to professional practice initiatives and administrative leadership for the chapter.
Zack Rees
Treasurer
Treasurer Zack Rees from HDR manages financial operations and budgetary oversight for the chapter. He ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting the organization's strategic goals and initiatives.
Questions
What benefits do ASLA members receive?
Members gain professional designation eligibility, reduced education rates, networking opportunities, job board access, and advocacy representation.
How can I become a member?
Students can join for free annually through ASLA's website. Professionals can apply through the national ASLA organization to join local chapters.
What services does ILASLA offer?
We provide advocacy, continuing education, networking events, design awards recognition, and professional resources for landscape architects.
When are your events held?
Annual events include World Landscape Architecture Month in April and the Celebration event typically held in September in Chicago.
Do you recognize student achievements?
Yes, we offer student awards in General Design categories and provide exposure through publications and our annual Celebration event.
